Systems and methods for tracking of non-wagering account associated with gaming environment

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods are disclosed for associating a player identifier with a financial account. The financial account can holds funds that are accessible through the player&#39;s use of a payment vehicle. Information associated with transactions using the payment vehicle can be used for player relationship purposes.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of prior application U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/423,918, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FORTRACKING OF NON-WAGERING ACCOUNT ASSOCIATED WITH GAMING ENVIRONMENT,”filed on Feb. 3, 2017, which is a continuation of prior application U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/962,321, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODSFOR TRACKING OF NON-WAGERING ACCOUNT ASSOCIATED WITH GAMINGENVIRONMENT,” filed on Dec. 8, 2015, which is a continuation of priorapplication U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/326,596, now U.S. Pat.No. 9,251,651, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING OFNON-WAGERING ACCOUNT ASSOCIATED WITH GAMING ENVIRONMENT,” filed on Jul.9, 2014, which is a continuation of prior application U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/033,495, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,777,725, entitled“SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING OF NON-WAGERING ACCOUNT ASSOCIATEDWITH GAMING ENVIRONMENT,” filed on Sep. 22, 2013, which claims priorityto the disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.61/744,564, entitled “DUAL PREPAID/LOYALTY CARD FOR GAMING,” filed Sep.28, 2012, the disclosures of which are all herein by reference in theirentirety.

BACKGROUND

Within gaming establishments, such as casinos, gaming devices aretypically networked via a central computer. Such configuration allowsfor the gaming establishment to monitor a player's gameplay for trackingpurposes. Gaming devices typically issue paper tickets that areredeemable for cash. These paper tickets can be redeemed either atassisted-service counters (i.e., a casino cage) or through self-servicecomputer systems, sometimes called Ticket-In-Ticket-Out (TITO) machines.Drawbacks of using paper tickets, however, is that the players may veryeasily lose tickets, tickets can become destroyed or damaged, casinosincur cost from replenishing tickets, and casinos incur cost formaintaining ticket printers. Additionally, the use of tickets requiresthat operators of casinos ensure that sufficient amounts of cash areavailable on the gaming floor to accommodate redemptions at both theassisted-service counters and the TITO machines. Players wishing to playa table game at a casino typically first exchange cash for an amount ofchips which can then be used for gaming. When the player wants toconvert the chips back to the cash, the player typically exchanges theirchips for an equivalent amount of cash at a cashier cage at the casino.Thus, in addition to ensure sufficient cash is available for ticketredemptions, operators of casinos must ensure also sufficient amounts ofcash are available at the cashier cage to accommodate player exchangingchips for cash. This process for routinely replenishing cash by thecasino operator is both costly and burdensome.

Additionally, in many gaming establishments players can registerdemographic information to obtain a player card, sometimes referred toas a loyalty card. Typical player cards include a unique identifier thatenables the casino to centrally track the player's wagering activity.Applying the player's historic activity, the gaming establishment can,for example, develop a targeted marketing campaign including promotions,gifts, and advertisements. A problem with casino loyalty systems,however, is that they do not capture spending player activity thatoccurs in non-gaming environments, such the player's purchases at amerchant or the player's ATM activity.

Therefore, the field can benefit from systems and methods providingcashless wagering and redemption, which provides advantages to both gameplayers and casino operators. The field can also benefit from systemsand methods that conveniently allow a gaming establishment to trackplayer gaming activity and player purchase activity, both inside andoutside the casino, to associate such activity with the player's loyaltyprofile.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, the present disclosure is directed, in part, to acomputer-based method of gaming. The method comprises receiving, by atransaction facilitator, from a gaming computing system affiliated witha gaming environment, a player identifier, wherein the player identifieris associated with a gaming account having an account balance, andwherein the transaction facilitator comprises a processor and a memoryunit. The method also comprises, based at least partially on the playeridentifier, identifying, by the transaction facilitator computingsystem, a stored value account, wherein the stored value account isassociated with a stored value payment vehicle issued to the player, andwherein an account balance of the stored value account is maintained byan issuer processor computing system. The method also comprises,communicating, by a transaction facilitator, with the financialinstitution and the gaming computing system to decrease the accountbalance and increase the account balance the gaming account.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed, in part, to acomputer-based method of funding an account associated with a player.The method comprises receiving, by a transaction facilitator computingsystem, a load request from a casino computing system that is associatedwith a casino, wherein the load request comprises a request to loadplayer funds to a stored value account associated with a stored valuepayment vehicle, wherein the stored value account has a first availablebalance amount. The method also comprises receiving, by the transactionfacilitator computing system, player funds information from the casinocomputing system, wherein the funds information comprises at least atotal value of the player funds. The method also comprisescommunicating, by the transaction facilitator computing system, with anissuer processor computing system to increase a balance amount of thestored value account based on the total value of the player funds,wherein the balance amount is available for access by the stored valuepayment vehicle in substantially real-time.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed, in part, to acomputer-based method of funding an account associated with a storedvalue payment vehicle. The method comprises receiving, by a casinocomputing system, a load request initiated by a player, wherein the loadrequest comprises a request to load player-sourced funds to a storedvalue account that is associated with any of a stored value paymentvehicle and a player identifier, wherein the stored value account has afirst available balance amount. The method also comprises communicating,by the casino computing system, with an issuer processor computingsystem to increase the first available balance amount of the storedvalue account to a second available balance amount based on a totalvalue of funds to be loaded.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed, in part, to agaming system for a gaming environment. The gaming system comprises astored value payment vehicle issued to a player, wherein fundsaccessible by the stored value payment vehicle are maintained by anissuer processor computing system in a stored value account andaccessible through payment networks. The system also comprises a gamingaccount maintained by the casino computing system. The system alsocomprises transaction facilitator that comprises at least one processorand non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions storedthereon which when executed by a processor cause the processor toselectively credit and debit the stored value account and the gamingaccount secured communication links.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed, in part, to acomputer-based method of player tracking. The method comprisesassociating, by a computing system and in computer memory, a storedvalue account of a player with a player identifier of the player. Themethod also comprises receiving, by the computing system,transaction-related information associated with the use of the storedvalue account. The method also comprises providing, by the computingsystem, to the casino computing system a player intelligence report,wherein the player intelligence report comprises the player identifierand a transaction report based at least partially on thetransaction-related information.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed, in part, to acomputer-based method. The method comprises associating, by a computingsystem and in computer memory, a stored value account of a player with agaming loyalty account of the player. The method also comprisesreceiving, by the computing system, a transaction incentive associatedwith the stored value account of the player and the gaming loyaltyaccount of the player. The method also comprises when the stored valueaccount is used in the processing of a transaction, determining, by thecomputing system, if the transaction incentive is applicable to thetransaction.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed, in part, to aplayer tracking system. The player tracking system comprises a storedvalue payment vehicle issued to a player, wherein funds accessible bythe stored value payment vehicle are maintained by an issuer of thestored value payment vehicle in a stored value account, wherein thestored value payment account is linked to a loyalty profile of theplayer maintained by a computing system. The player tracking system alsocomprises a transaction facilitator comprising at least one processorand non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions storedthereon which when executed by a processor cause the processor toreceive transaction information, wherein the transaction informationidentifies purchase transactions using the funds that are accessible bythe stored value payment vehicle and provide, to the computing systemthat maintains the loyalty profile of the player, purchase-related data,wherein the purchase-related data is based on the transactioninformation and identifies the loyalty profile linked to the player.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed, in part, to aplayer tracking system. The player tracking system comprises atransaction facilitator comprising at least one processor andnon-transitory computer readable medium having instructions storedthereon which when executed by a processor cause the processor toreceive transaction-related information associated with purchasetransaction, the purchase transaction initiated by a stored valuepayment vehicle issued to a player, wherein funds accessible by thestored value payment vehicle are maintained in a stored value account,wherein the stored value payment account is linked to a loyalty profileof the player that is managed by a casino computing system, andcommunicate with the casino computing system to update the loyaltyprofile of the player based on the transaction-related information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

It is believed that certain embodiments will be better understood fromthe following description taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, in which like references indicate similar elements and inwhich:

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an association between a stored valuepayment vehicle and a gaming account in accordance with one non-limitingembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A depicts an example system view and flow process utilizing thestored value payment vehicle of FIG. 1 in accordance with onenon-limiting embodiment.

FIG. 2B depicts the system view and flow process of FIG. 2A furthercomprising a casino level player account in accordance with onenon-limiting embodiment.

FIGS. 3-4 are diagrammatic representations of associations betweenstored value payment vehicles and gaming accounts in accordance withvarious non-limiting embodiments.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates example cash flows between examplegaming accounts associated with a player and cash flows between thegaming accounts and stored value payment vehicle issued to the player inaccordance with one non-limiting embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic representation of an example gaming system andflow process in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment.

FIG. 7 is an example arrangement of a transaction facilitatorinteracting with a gaming environment and an issuer processor computingsystem in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an example arrangement for tracking and rewarding playeractivity in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment.

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates various techniques for a player to loadfunds to a stored value account.

FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic representation of various computing devicesassociated with a casino that are in communication with a transactionfacilitator that performs various financial transactions associated witha stored value account managed by an issuer processor computing system.

FIGS. 11-14 depict example simplified screen displays of the casino cagecomputing device of FIG. 10.

FIG. 15 depicts an example user interface screen on a display of acomputing device that is associated with an unattended casino kiosk.

FIG. 16 depicts an example user interface screen on a display of acomputing device that is associated with a casino gaming pit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The presently disclosed system and methods can generally allow forgaming-related financial transactions. As described in more detailbelow, utilizing a financial facilitator, a player can selectivelytransfer funds between various types of gaming accounts and anassociated account, such as a stored value account and/or a casino levelplayer account. The stored value account can be a financial account thatis maintained by an issuing financial institution, with funds in thestored value account accessible to the cardholder through an associatedstored value payment vehicle using open-loop or closed-loop paymentprocessing, for example. The stored value payment vehicle can be anysuitable payment vehicle, such as a physical card, a virtual paymentdevice, or have any other suitable format. In some embodiments thestored value payment vehicle is a general purpose reloadable prepaidcard.

Gaming environments can utilize different types of gaming accounts, suchas casino level player accounts and/or wagering accounts. With regard towagering accounts, some types of wagering accounts are regulated byjurisdictional gaming statutes. For the purposes of illustration, threedifferent types of wagering accounts are described herein (internetgaming wagering accounts, brick-and-mortar wagering accounts, andrace-and-sports wagering accounts), although this disclosure is not solimited. In fact, the systems and methods described herein are generallyapplicable to the transfer of between any suitable wagering account andan associated stored value account, or intermediary account, such as acasino level player account, as described below.

As used herein, internet gaming wagering account (or iGaming wageringaccount), generally means an electronic ledger wherein the followingtypes of transactions relative to internet or mobile gaming system arerecorded: (a) deposits; (b) withdrawals; (c) amounts wagered; (d)amounts paid on winning wagers; (e) service or other transaction-relatedcharges authorized by the patron; and (f) adjustments to the account.

As used herein, brick-and-mortar wagering account generally means anelectronic ledger for a brick-and-mortar cashless wagering system patrondeposit account wherein the following types of transactions are recordedto and from gaming devices (i.e.; slots): (a) deposits and withdrawalsof cash or cash equivalents at a designated area of accountability; (b)deposits initiated with a debit instrument; (c) wagering accounttransfers to and from gaming devices; (d) wagering account adjustments.

As used herein, race-and-sports wagering account generally means anelectronic ledger wherein the following types of transactions relativeto sports and non-pari-mutuel race wagers are recorded: (a) deposits;(b) withdrawals; (c) amounts wagered; (d) amounts paid on winningwagers; (e) amounts paid for horse racing-related services ormerchandise; (f) service or other transaction-related charges authorizedby the patron; and (g) adjustments to the account.

As described in more detail below, a financial facilitator can generallydirect or enable transactions with the issuing financial institution toaffect the increasing and decreasing of an account balance of the storedvalue account. A financial facilitator can also generally direct orenable transactions with a computing system that manages a gamingaccount of a gaming environment to affect the increasing and decreasingof an account balance of the gaming account. The issuing financialinstitution can also receive communications related to the stored valueaccount in a traditional fashion via an open system from merchantsthrough existing bank card networks. Such communications canauthorize/decline purchases using funds held in the stored valueaccount.

In some embodiments, a player can be associated with a unique playeridentifier that can be used by a casino or other gaming environment toidentify a particular player. Such a player identifier may be issuedsubsequent to the player enrolling in a casino loyalty program, forexample. In some cases, the unique player identifier is embossed on aplayer card, sometimes referred to as a loyalty card, or is otherwiseaccessible or presentable by a player. In some embodiments, the playeridentifier can be a graphical code, such as a quick-response (QR) codedisplayable on a mobile computing device or the player identifier can bea barcode printed on a keychain fob or other substrate. In any event,the player identifier can be provided to a gaming device or casinorepresentative to enable the casino to centrally track the player'swagering activity. The player identifier is linked by the issuing entity(such as a casino) a loyalty profile that can be stored or otherwisemaintained by customer relationship software that is maintained by thecasino or on behalf of the casino by an affiliated service provider.

As described in more detail below, a player identifier for a particularplayer can be linked to, or otherwise associated with, a stored valueaccount held by a financial institution and accessible by the particularplayer. Such a linkage or association offers a variety of benefits, bothto players and an associated casino. For example, in one exampleimplementation, a player can interact with a gaming device (such as aslot machine) by providing a player identifier to the device. In somecases, additional credentials, such as a PIN or password, can beprovided by the player. Through network communications, the gamingdevice can communicate with various computing platforms, such as a slotmanagement system and/or casino management system, which generally maybe referred to as a casino computing system, to authenticate theplayer's identity. Once authenticated, the player can selectively accessfunds that are maintained in the stored value account of an issuingfinancial institution for use at the gaming device. The casino computingsystem can communicate with a transaction facilitator (such as throughAPI-calls, or other suitable communication techniques) to provide theinformation to identify the player that is seeking to access funds. Inone embodiment, a player identifier of the player is provided to thetransaction facilitator. As described in more detail below, the playeridentifier can be the loyalty account number or other type ofidentifier. The transaction facilitator, in turn, can determine a storedvalue account associated with that player and, through closed networkcommunications with the issuing financial institution, dispatchappropriate messaging to debit the stored value account. Indication of asuccessful debit can be provided to the casino computing system by thetransaction facilitator. The casino computing system can then credit aone or more gaming accounts of the player to increase their availablebalance. Funds, in the form of gaming credits, can then be distributedto the gaming device (sometimes referred to as a wagering accounttransfer in “WAT in”). At a later point in time, when the player wishesto “cash out,” the credits of the gaming device can be transferred to agaming account (sometimes referred to as a wagering account transfer out“WAT out”). Once received into the gaming account, the gaming creditscan be converted to a fund amount and used to credit the stored valueaccount, held in the gaming account, or even transferred to anothergaming account.

In some embodiments, various transfers described below can be performedin substantially real-time. As used herein, substantially real-timemeans generally less than about 20 minutes, generally less than about 10minutes, generally less that about 5 minutes, generally less than about1 minutes, or generally less than about 30 seconds. Therefore, in theexample described above, subsequent to the player “cashing out”, thefunds transferred to the stored value account can be accessible to makepurchases using the associated stored value payment vehicle insubstantially real-time

The stored value payment vehicle can be, for example, a general purposereloadable card (sometimes referred to as a GPR card) that is anopen-loop payment vehicle. Being an open loop payment vehicle, it isassociated with a bank card network (MASTERCARD, VISA, DISCOVER, and soforth) and can generally be used at any merchant or ATM acceptingpayment cards associated with the bank card network. Open looptransactions seeking authorization from funds of the stored valueaccount send authorization requests to the issuing financial institutionthrough an open bank card network. In accordance with the systems andmethods disclosed herein, using secured communication links, the issuingfinancial institution can provide a financial facilitator withinformation based on stored value card transactions. The financialfacilitator can determine a player identifier associated with thatstored value account and then provide reporting to the casino computingsystem. This reporting can be used, for example, to supplement or updatea loyalty profile of a player based on the increased knowledge about theplayer gained from tracking their spending.

Embodiments are hereinafter described in detail in connection FIGS.1-16, wherein like numbers indicate the same or corresponding elementsthroughout the figures. It is noted that reference throughout thespecification to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “oneembodiment,” “some example embodiments,” “one example embodiment,” or“an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with the embodiment is includedin at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in variousembodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “some exampleembodiments,” “one example embodiment, or “in an embodiment” in placesthroughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to thesame embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures orcharacteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or moreembodiments.

FIG. 1 is a schematically illustrates an association between a storedvalue payment vehicle 116 and a gaming account 188 in accordance withone embodiment of the present disclosure. The gaming account 188 can beassociated with a gaming environment 102. As used herein, gamingenvironment can refer to, without limitation, a brick-and-mortar casinoand/or an online or virtual casino. In some cases, the gamingenvironment also extends to entities or services, such as third partycomputer systems generally controlled by or operated on behalf of acasino operator. FIG. 2A depicts an example system view and flow process100 utilizing the stored value payment vehicle 116 in accordance withone non-limiting embodiment. Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2A, a player114 can be issued the stored value payment vehicle 116 that isassociated with a stored value account 128 maintained by an issuerprocessor computing system 126. The issuer processor computing system126 can be a system used to maintain and/or process transactionsassociated with the stored value payment vehicle 116 and the storedvalue account 128. The stored value payment vehicle 116 can be aphysical card, a virtual card, or any other suitable type of vehicle. Insome embodiments, the stored value payment vehicle 116 is a generalpurpose reloadable card (sometimes referred to as a prepaid card). Thestored value payment vehicle 116 can be an “open-loop card,” which aconsumer can use anywhere that accepts payment from a retail electronicpayments network associated with the stored value payment vehicle, suchas MASTERCARD, VISA, DISCOVER, and so forth, as discussed above. Thestored value payment vehicle 116 can be a “closed-loop card”, which aconsumer can use at particular merchant locations, for example. Theplayer 114 can fund (i.e., increase the available balance) the storedvalue account 128 through traditional techniques, such as by transfersfunds from a demand access account (DDA) and/or funds loaded from acredit card to the stored value account 128 through an online interface.As described in more detail below, the player 114 can also selectivelyfund the stored value account 128 from the gaming environment 102 usingcash, jackpot payouts, and numerous other ways, such as chip and slotticket redemption.

The stored value payment vehicle 116 can be used by the player 114 tomake “purchases at a variety of merchant types. As shown in FIG. 2B,non-limiting example types of merchants include a brick-and-mortarmerchant 118, an online merchant 120, an ATM machine 122, and a serviceprovider 124. Accordingly, the stored value payment vehicle 116 can beused to facilitate the transfer of funds from the stored value account128 through purchase transactions (schematically illustrated astransactions 132, 134, 136, and 138). In some cases, a particularmerchant may be associated with the gaming environment 102, such asaffiliated merchant 112. Example affiliated merchants 112 can include,without limitation, on-property retailers, restaurants, and hotels.While the affiliated merchant 112 is illustrated as being within thegaming environment 102, this disclosure is not so limited. In someembodiments the affiliated merchant 112 is an online merchant, forexample. The stored value payment vehicle 116 can be used for a purchasetransaction 130 at such affiliated merchants 112. In some embodiments,the purchase transaction 130 can be processed as a closed-looptransaction due to the affiliation with the gaming environment or atransaction facilitator, as described below. As described in more detailbelow, the systems and methods described herein can allow for such apurchase transaction 130 by the player 114 to be incentive and/orrewarded. The purchase transactions 32, 134, 136, and 138 by the player114 can also be rewarded, with reward levels being the same or differentas the rewards or comps associated with purchase transaction 130.

A gaming account can be associated with the casino environment 102. Asused herein, a gaming account can be any type of financial account(i.e., electronic ledger) that is associated with a player, orcollection of financial accounts that are associated with a player, andmaintained by a casino, or at least on behalf of a casino. While FIG. 1schematically shows one gaming account 188 for the sake of clarity, itis to be appreciated that the player 114 and/or the stored value paymentvehicle 116 can be associated with any number of gaming accounts 188.Further, the gaming account 188 can be any suitable account type. InFIG. 2A, for example, the gaming accounts associated with the play 114are illustrated as wagering accounts 104. In other embodiments, such asdescribed below in connection with FIG. 2B and FIG. 5, for example, thegaming account 188 can comprise a casino level player account. Stillreferring to FIG. 1, In accordance with the systems and methodsdescribed herein, the player 114 can selectively direct funds 116Aassociated with the stored value payment vehicle 116 to the gamingaccount 188. The player 114 can also selectively direct funds 116Bassociated with the gaming account 188 to the stored value paymentvehicle 116. In other words, in accordance with the disclosure, theplayer 114 can transfer funds, back and forth, in real-time, between astored value account 128 and the gaming account 188 of the player 114.In some embodiments, the directed funds 116A, 116B are transferred (i.e.credited) to the destination account in substantially real time. Inother embodiments, a “pause” between an initiated transfer and anavailability of the transferred funds can be implemented. For example,to the extent that regulators and responsible gaming advocates believethat a “pause” is significant to minimize reckless gaming, the systemsand methods described herein are adaptable to institute certain pausesin accessing funds.

In one example embodiment, using directed funds 116A, 116B, a player 114can supply funds for a gaming experience within the gaming environment102, and subsequently cash-out from the gaming experience, all withoutphysically handling cash or coins within the gaming environment 102.Since all of the funds are electronically transferred between a selectedgaming account 188 and the stored value account 128 as credits anddebits, for these particular transactions, the necessity for the player102 or the gaming environment 102 to physically handle cash or coins iseliminated. In other embodiments, however, the player 114 bring cash orcoins into the gaming environment 102 and selectively transfer suchfunds to their stored value account 128, as described in more detailbelow (see FIGS. 9-10, for example). Additionally, in other embodiments,the player 114 withdraw cash from their stored value account 128 whilein the gaming environment, as described in more detail below (see FIG.13, for example).

Referring again to FIG. 2A, gaming accounts associated with the player114 are shown as wagering accounts 104, which can be managed bymanagement computing system (not shown) affiliated with the gamingenvironment 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the wagering accounts104 include a brick-and-mortar wagering account 106, a race-and-sportwagering account 108, and an iGaming wagering account 110. Thebrick-and-mortar wagering account 106 is generally an electronic ledgerassociated with a player's table and slot wagers. The race-and-sportwagering account 108 is generally an electronic ledger associated with aplayer's sports and non-pari-mutuel race wagers. The iGaming wageringaccount 110 is generally an electronic ledger associated with a player'sonline wagers, such as online poker and virtual gaming. It is noted thatin some jurisdictions, gaming regulations forbid the transferring of aplayer's funds stored in one wagering account 106, 108, 110 directly toanother wagering account 106, 108, 110

FIG. 2B depicts another embodiment of the system view and flow process100 illustrated in FIG. 2A. As shown in FIG. 2B, the system view andflow process 200 additionally comprises a gaming account that is acasino level player account 250. The casino level player account 250 canbe generally an electronic ledger associated with a player. It can alsobe associated one or more wagering accounts 104. The casino level playeraccount 250 can offer a variety of functionality to the player 114. Forexample, a player 114 can direct funds stored their stored value account128 to the casino level player account 250. In certain embodiments, theplayer 114 can direct funds stored in one of the wagering accounts 104or other gaming account to the casino level player account 250, asopposed to directing the funds to the stored value account 128. Theplayer 114 can then direct the funds held in the casino level playeraccount 250 to a different wagering account 104. Additional detailsregarding example transfers of funds are described below in connectionwith FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the player 114 can selectively utilizefunds held by the casino level player account 250 for closed-loop pointof sale transactions, either retail transactions (such as at anaffiliated merchant 112) or closed-loop cash outs, all while enjoyingreduced interchange fees due to the closed-loop nature of thetransactions. Therefore, in some cases, performing transactions withfunds in the casino level player account 250 is less costly to thegaming operator of the casino environment 102 and to the player 114. Forsome implementations comprising a casino level player account 250, whena player 114 directs funds 116A into the gaming environment 102, theplayer 116 can still direct them to a particular wagering account 104,as illustrated. In other implementations comprising a casino levelplayer account 250, a player 114 can direct funds 116A into the casinolevel player account 250. The player 114 can subsequently direct thosefunds to a particular wagering account 104 or use the funds forclosed-loop transactions.

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of an association between astored value payment vehicle 316 and a gaming account 388 in accordancewith one non-limiting embodiment. Similar to FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B, thestored value payment vehicle 316 is issued to a player 314, and inaccordance with the systems and methods described herein, the player 314can selectively direct the transfer of funds 316A into a gaming account388 of a casino environment 302. The player 314 can also direct thetransfer of funds 316B from the gaming account 388. As is to beappreciated, the gaming account 388 illustrated in FIG. 3 can be,without limitation, a wagering account, a casino level player account,or a combination thereof. The stored value payment vehicle 316 is linkedto a stored value account (not shown).

In this embodiment, the gaming environment 302 is linked to a playerloyalty database 350 which stores data in the form of a player loyaltyprofile 352 associated with the player 314. The player loyalty profile352 can include data associated with the gaming history of the player314, incentives, comps, and other tracking-related information, as isknown in the art. The loyalty profile 352 can also include informationrelated to fund transfer data, as illustrated by data capturing 354.Accordingly, the player loyalty profile 352 can include, for example,dates of transfers, amounts of transfers, times of transfers, number oftransfers, and so forth.

FIG. 4 is similar to the diagrammatic representation of an associationbetween a stored value payment vehicle 316 and a gaming account 388shown in FIG. 3, although FIG. 4 schematically illustrates additionalfunctionality with regard to player tracking. In this embodiment, afinancial transaction 364 in which the stored value payment vehicle 316is used at a merchant 366 is shown. The merchant 366 can be, forexample, any type of merchant or ATM that accepts the stored valuepayment vehicle 316 as a form of payment. As illustrated by data capture362, information regarding the financial transaction 364 is provided tothe player loyalty profile 352 utilizing data capture 362. In thisembodiment, the player loyalty profile 352 is maintained by a customerrelationship management engine 360, which can be operated by the gamingoperator of the gaming environment 302 or a third party serviceprovider. As described in more detail below, based on the player loyaltyprofile 352 and/or financial transactions 364, an operator of the gamingenvironment 302, or other parties or entities, can offer variousincentives, discounts, coupons, deals, programs, or offerings to theplayer 314. Such offerings can be provided to the player 314 through aloyalty account associated with the player loyalty profile 352 and/orprovided through the stored value payment account.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates example cash flows between examplegaming accounts associated with a player 514 along with the cash flowsbetween the gaming accounts and stored value payment vehicle 516 issuedto the player. In the illustrated embodiments, the gaming accounts inthe casino environment 502 are shown as a casino level player account aplurality of wagering accounts. In accordance with the systems andmethods described herein, the player 514 can selectively direct thetransfer of funds 516A into a casino level player account 550. Theplayer 514 can also direct the transfer of funds 516B from the casinolevel player account 550. As is to be appreciated, the stored valuepayment vehicle 516 is linked to a stored value account (not shown). Forfunds held by the casino level player account 550, the player 514 canselectively transfer a portion (or all) of the funds in and out ofvarious wagering accounts 506, 508, 510, shown as wagering account 1,wagering account 2 and wagering account 3. The player 514 can alsoutilize the casino level player account 550 to initiate financialtransactions at an affiliated merchant 512 as a closed-loop transaction.The affiliated merchant 512 can be, for example, a retailer on a casinoproperty, an ATM, or other type of closed-loop merchant.

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic representation of another example gaming systemand flow process 600 in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment.This gaming system and flow process 600 includes a networked gamingdevice 676, such as a slot machine, a casino kiosk, casino gaming pitcomputing system, sports book computing system, and so forth. As isgenerally known in the art, the gaming device 676 can be in networkedcommunication with a variety of computer-based entities, such as a slotmanagement system (SMS) 672 and a casino management system (CMS) 674. Insome gaming environments, the SMS 672 and the CMS 674 may collectivelybe considered components of a casino computing system. The networkedarrangement can include wired and/or wireless communication links.Examples of suitable networks can include a local area network (LAN),virtual private network (VPN), an Internet connection, and/or any othernetwork configuration that is capable to enable the CMS 674 and SMS 672to communicate with the gaming device 676 and other devices. Thenetworked arrangement can provide two-way communications between the CMS674 and SMS 672 and gaming device 676. In the illustrated embodiment,the CMS 674 maintains a player loyalty profile 612 for a player 614 andmaintains gaming accounts for the player 614, shown as wagering account614. Other embodiments however can use different configurations withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, theplayer loyalty profile 612 may be maintained by a third-party customerrelationship management service or the casino gaming system.

The gaming system can comprise one or more gaming accounts (shown as asingle gaming account 688 in FIG. 6 for the sake of illustration). Whilethe gaming account 688 is schematically shown within the CMS 674, othergaming environments can maintain the gaming account 688 elsewhere, suchas by a separate wagering account management entity or a third-partywagering account provider. In the illustrated embodiment, the gamingaccount comprises a brick-and-mortar gaming account, so that gamingcredits can be provided to the meter 680 of the gaming device 676, asdescribed below.

A stored value payment vehicle 616, such as a prepaid debit card, orother suitable type of payment vehicle, is issued to the player 614 by abank or other financial entity. A player identifier 670 is also assignedto the player 614 so that an operator of the gaming environment 602 canproperly identify the player 614. In some embodiment, the playeridentifier 670 is expressed as a number or string that is provided tothe player 614 on a physical card (such as a loyalty card or player'scard). In other embodiments, the player identifier 670 can begraphical-based or be chip-based and utilize near-field communication(NFC) protocols, for example. In any event, as illustrated in FIG. 6,the player identifier 670 is provided to an input device 678 of thegaming device 676. As is to be appreciated, the particular type of inputdevice 678 used to read the player identifier 670 will depend on theparticular format of the player identifier 670. In some embodiments, theinput device 678 is a magnetic card reader, while in other embodimentsthe input device 678 is an optical scanner. In some embodiments, inaddition to providing the player identifier 670, additional credentials(such as a PIN) must be provided by the player 614 for authenticationpurposes. Further, while not illustrated, it is noted that in someembodiments, the gaming device 676 can be configured to read or scan thestored value payment vehicle 616.

Upon receiving the player identifier 670, along with any othercredentials, the gaming device 676 provides the data to the SMS 672and/or the CMS 674 through network communications. Upon authenticatingthe identification of the player 614, various types of financialtransactions related to the stored value payment vehicle 616 and/or thegaming account 688 can be offered to the player 614. In someembodiments, such offerings are provided on a graphical display on thegaming device, as provided to the gaming device 676 by communicationsfrom the SMS 672 and/or CMS 674. In one embodiment, for example, anavailable balance in a stored value account associated with the storedvalue payment vehicle 616 is displayed to the player 614. Additionaldetails regarding the retrieval of the available balance using atransaction facilitator is described in more detail below with regard toFIG. 7. The gaming device 676 can request a dollar amount be inputted bythe player 614 and once the player 614 selects a dollar amount, atransfer of funds 616A can be initiated to direct funds associated withthe stored value payment vehicle 616 to the gaming account 688.Depending on the type of gaming account 688 associated with the player,the funds can be transferred directly into a wagering account associatedwith the gaming device 676. Alternatively, funds can be received in acasino level player account and subsequently transferred to a wageringaccount associated with the gaming device 676. In any event, uponreceipt of the funds 616A, the funds can be converted to gaming credits.The gaming credits 682 can then be metered into gaming device 676 by itsmeter 680. The player can then use the gaming credits for wagering atthe gaming device 676, as is known in the art.

At the conclusion of a gaming session, the player 614 may desire totransfer any gaming credits 682 to the stored value payment vehicle 616in the form of funds. In one embodiment, when the player 614 initiates a“cash out” action at the gaming device 676, the gaming device 676prompts the player 614 to select the “cash out” technique, such asprinting a ticket for subsequent redemption or a transfer to the storedvalue account that is associated with the stored value payment vehicle616. Should the player 614 choose the latter, the gaming credits 682 canbe first transferred out of the gaming device 676 and into the gamingaccount 688, where it is converted to funds. Then a transfer of funds616B is initiated using a closed-loop communications with the financialinstitution maintaining the stored value account to credit that account.As described in more detail below, a transaction facilitator (not shown)can be used to facilitate the transmission of such credit and debitmessaging. From the perspective of the player 614, the gaming creditsthat had been associated with the gaming device 676 are converted tofunds that are available for access by the player's stored value paymentvehicle 616. Such conversion of gaming credits to available funds foraccess by the stored value payment vehicle 616 can be in substantiallyreal-time.

FIG. 7 is an example arrangement 700 of a transaction facilitator 790interacting with both a gaming environment 702 and an issuer processorcomputing system 726, in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment.Generally, the transaction facilitator 790 receives financialtransaction communications from the gaming environment 702. In someenvironments, such messages are received via a communications network,such as the SPAN™ network offered by Sightline Interactive LLC of LasVegas, Nev. In some embodiments, the communications are received throughan application programing interface (API) or other web-based messaging.The transaction facilitator 790 can also be in closed communication withthe issuer processor computing system 726 that maintains the storedvalue account 728 associated with a stored value payment vehicle 716. Itis noted that while the transaction facilitator 790 is schematicallyillustrated as a single entity, it is to be appreciated that thisdisclosure is not so limited. Instead, the functionality of thetransaction facilitator 790, as described herein, can be distributedacross, or otherwise performed by, a plurality of various entities, suchpayment gateways, acquirer processors, and other types of paymentintermediaries. Also, the transaction facilitator 790, or at leastcomponents thereof, can reside within the gaming environment 702 or becontrolled by an operator of the gaming environment. In such embodiment,the transaction facilitator 790 can be configured to communicate withthe issuer processor computing system 726 through a securedcommunication link. Further, the transaction facilitator 790, or atleast components thereof, can be controlled by the issuer processorcomputing system 726. Therefore, the transaction facilitator 790 may beoperated by, or otherwise controlled by a variety of different entities.The transaction facilitator 790 can also have a one-to-one processingrelationship with the gaming environment 702, as illustrated. It is tobe appreciated, however, that the transaction facilitator 790 can alsohave a one-to-many configuration such that it has a processingrelationship with a plurality of different gaming environments. Thecasino computing system 720, which can include one or more processors722 and one or more computer memory units 724, can process the playeridentifier. For convenience, only one processor 722 and only one memoryunit 724 are shown in FIG. 7. The processor 722 can execute softwareinstructions stored on the memory unit 724. The processor 722 can beimplemented as an integrated circuit (IC) having one or multiple cores.The memory unit 724 can include volatile and/or non-volatile memoryunits. Volatile memory units can include random access memory (RAM), forexample. Non-volatile memory units can include read only memory (ROM),for example, as well as mechanical non-volatile memory systems, such as,for example, a hard disk drive, an optical disk drive, etc. The RAMand/or ROM memory units can be implemented as discrete memory ICs, forexample. In some embodiments, the casino computing system 720 canexecute the slot management system and the casino management systemdescribed above.

Similar to input of the player identifier 670 described in FIG. 6, aplayer identifier 770 associated with the player 714 can be provided tothe input device 778 of a gaming device 776. The gaming device can haveone or more displays 784. The player identifier 712 can be used toidentify a player loyalty profile 712 of the player. The casinocomputing system 720 can be configured to transmit the player identifier770, or other player identifying data, to the transaction facilitator790 using a suitable network interface 786.

Upon receiving the player identifier 770, or other player identifyingdata, the transaction facilitator 790 can match the player identifyingdata to a particular stored value account 728, as can be maintained by aplayer database 792. While the player database 792 is illustrated as acomponent of the transaction facilitator 792, this disclosure is not solimited. Such information can be stored by any suitable entity in thesystem hierarchy, including by an entity within the gaming environment702. It is noted, however, that by maintaining the player database 792outside the gaming environment 702, Payment Card Industry (PCI)compliance requirements of the gaming environment 702 may be reduced.

Once the stored value account 728 of the player 714 has been identifiedby the transaction facilitator 790, the transaction facilitator 790 cantransmit the appropriate messaging to the issuer processor computingsystem 726. For example, messages may include a balance inquiry, anauthorization request, and so forth. For fund transfers, the transactionfacilitator 790 can facilitate the message flow to affect the transfersof funds 728A by debiting the stored value account 728 and crediting thegaming account 788 or the message flow to affect the transfers of funds728B by debiting the gaming account 788 and crediting the stored valueaccount 728. As described above, funds transferred into the gamingaccount 788 can be converted to gaming credits 782 for gaming at thegaming device 776. Alternatively, depending on the type of the gamingaccount 788, the funds can be used for other types of gaming, such asiGaming, race-and-sports gaming, and so forth.

One deficiency of typical casino loyalty systems is that they cannotcapture patron spending behavior that occurs in non-gaming environments,such as in casino related restaurants, hotel, retail stores, ATM, and soforth. Casino loyalty systems also do not capture spending behavioroutside their physical property. Therefore, it may be desirable forcasinos and other gaming environments to expand their customer's loyaltyprograms (i.e., point earning capability) to include related non-gamingactivity. These expanded programs may encourage greater loyalty andpatronage of the casino while also providing additional businessintelligence regarding consumer behavior.

FIG. 8 illustrates an aspect of the present disclosure that aims tocapture patron spending behavior that occurs in non-gaming environmentsof a casino, such as in the restaurants, hotels, retail establishments,ATM's and well as spending behavior that occurs in non-casinoenvironments, such as in the restaurants, hotels, retail establishments,ATM's. The spending behavior is captured and related to the consumer'sloyalty program for processing. Capturing the behavior is possiblebecause of a communication link that is established between a processorof the transactions based on a stored value payment vehicle and thecasino loyalty program processor. In the illustrated embodiment, theplayer 814 is issued a stored value payment vehicle 816. The player 814also has a player loyalty profile 852 that is maintained by a customerrelationship management computing system. In accordance with thepresently disclosed systems and methods, tracking information regardingthe player's 814 use of the stored value payment vehicle 816 can beprovided to improve the depth and value of player loyalty profile 852.

The stored value payment vehicle 816 can be used for financialtransactions at a variety of locations, such as an unaffiliated merchant818 or an ATM machine 822. These transactions can use traditionalopen-loop payment network communications to seek authorizations from theissuer processor computing system 826 associated with the stored valuepayment vehicle 816, as is known in the art. The stored value paymentvehicle 816 can also be used at an affiliated merchant 812, such as at acasino hotel or restaurant. Depending on the acquirer processor used bythe merchants 812, 818 the transaction may be routed to the issuerprocessor computing system 826 through either open-loop networkcommunication links or closed-loop network communication links.

For both types of transactions, data regarding these transactions can beprovided to the transaction facilitator 890. Upon receiving (or in somecases retrieving) transactional data, a player tracking engine 804 candetermine a loyalty profile account associated with the cardholder. Insome embodiments, the player tracking engine 804 utilizes a playerdatabase, which may be similar to the player database 792 shown in FIG.7. The transaction facilitator 890 can then dispatch an intelligencereport 832 to the casino computing system 820 or otherwise make theintelligence report 832 available to the casino computing system 820.The intelligence report 832 can be in a variety of different forms andinclude a wide variety of information. The intelligence report 832 canbe, for example, data provided to a casino computing system and/orcustomer relationship platform. The intelligence report 832 can beprovided using any suitable distribution technique and may vary based onimplementation. For example, the intelligence report 832 can be providedas a data feed in some embodiments. In other embodiments, theintelligence report 832 can be provided as a data file or other type offile. In some embodiments, the intelligence report 832 includesidentifications of the various merchants where the player 814 used, orattempted to use, the stored value payment vehicle 816.

In some embodiments, the player tracking engine 804 can be configured toassign a loyalty value, such as using a point system, or other metric,to various transactions involving the stored value payment vehicle 816,or the player based on the transactions of the stored value paymentvehicle 816. Transactions at a first set of merchants, as identifiableby a merchant category code received from a POS device, may receive ahigher point value or different value metric than transactions receivedfrom a second set of merchants. In the context of the illustratedembodiment, financial transactions at the affiliated merchant 812 canprovide the player 814 with more loyalty “points” than financialtransactions at the unaffiliated merchant 818. In some cases, thetransaction at the unaffiliated merchant 818 may have zero loyalty valueor even have a negative loyalty value. For example, the unaffiliatedmerchant 818 may be a merchant at a competing casino. Based on theincentivized behavior, the player 814 may decide not to use the storedvalue payment vehicle 816 at unaffiliated merchant 818 and instead useit at affiliated merchant 812.

The player tracking engine 804 can accumulate points or other loyaltydata/values for the player 814 for a particular period and then providea reporting of the points in the intelligence report 832. Based on thepoints values, or other metrics, incentives 834 can be provided to theplayer through the player loyalty program.

In accordance with certain embodiments, a couponing engine 806 can allowfor the distribution of merchant-specific coupons as part of a loyaltyprogram. The couponing engine 806 can store a table, for example,correlating the stored value payment vehicle 816 to particulardiscounts, coupons, or offers as part of a loyalty program (collectivelyreferred to as coupons) at particular merchants, which may be bothaffiliated and unaffiliated. When an authorization request is receivedby the issuer processor computing system 826 from a POS deviceassociated with a merchant (which may be an affiliated or unaffiliatedmerchant), the issuer processor computing system 826 can query thecouponing engine 806 to see if a coupon or other offering is available.

By way of example, a player 814 may have a received a coupon from acasino for $10 off a meal at a specific restaurant. For this example,the player 814 has an available balance of $100 in their stored valueaccount 828. The player 814 dines at the restaurant and charges $50 totheir stored value payment vehicle 816. The POS device seeksauthorization from the issuer processor computing system, as is known inthe art. Upon receiving the authorization request, the issuer processorcomputing system 826 uses the couponing engine 806 to see if a coupon isavailable for use (in this case, based on the cardholder and themerchant). The $10 off a meal coupon is identified as being applicable.The issuer processor computing system 826 returns a message to the POSdevice at the restaurant authorizing the full $50 charge. The storedvalue account 828, however, is only debited $40, thereby taking theavailable balance to $60. Accordingly, a coupon was automaticallyapplied to the open-loop transaction using the stored value paymentvehicle 816 without needing the merchant to apply the coupon to thesale. Once the coupon is applied to a transaction, the player trackingengine 804 can report the redemption of the coupon in the intelligencereport 832, or using other forms of reporting.

Players using the systems and methods described herein in a gamingenvironment may desire to load funds into their stored value account. Itmay be desirable to load such funds in substantially real-time so thatthe funds are accessible via their stored value payment vehiclerelatively quickly. FIG. 9 schematically illustrates various techniquesfor a player 914 to load funds to a stored value account 900 that isassociated with a stored value payment vehicle 916. The player 914 canutilize any number of fund sources 940, including player-sourced funds942 and jackpot funds 944. Referring first to the player-sourced funds942, a player can approach a computing system 920 of the casinoenvironment with the funds 942. The computing system 920 may be, forexample, an attended computing system (such as a casino cage) or anunattended computing system (such as at a kiosk). The type of computingsystem 920 will determine which type of funding module can be executed.For example, the cage module may allow for a player 914 to load bothchips and cash into their stored value account 916. The cage module mayalso allow for the player 914 to load a jackpot 944 into their storedvalue account 916, which is described in more detail below with regardto FIG. 12. The kiosk module may only allow for a player 914 to loadcash, coins, or tickets to their stored value account 916. A pit module,which can be executed on a computing system accessible by a dealer or apit boss, can allow for the loading of a stored value account 916 usingchips. A mobile module may be executing on a mobile computing device920, such as a tablet computer, that can read tickets. In someembodiments, the mobile module can facilitate a player 914 transferringfunds to/from the stored value account 916 to/from a gaming account(i.e., an iGaming wagering account). If the computing device 920 is partof a gaming device, the slot module can allow for the funding of thestored value account 916 through gaming credits (as described above).

The computing system 920 can communicate with a transaction facilitator990 through network communications, as described above. The transactionfacilitator 990 can be provided using any suitable processor-baseddevice or system, such as a personal computer, laptop, server,mainframe, or a collection (e.g., network) of multiple computers, forexample. The transaction facilitator 990 can include one or moreprocessors 992 and one or more computer memory units 994. Forconvenience, only one processor 992 and only one memory unit 994 areshown in FIG. 9. The processor 992 can execute software instructionsstored on the memory unit 994. The processor 992 can be implemented asan integrated circuit (IC) having one or multiple cores. The memory unit994 can include volatile and/or non-volatile memory units. Volatilememory units can include random access memory (RAM), for example.Non-volatile memory units can include read only memory (ROM), forexample, as well as mechanical non-volatile memory systems, such as, forexample, a hard disk drive, an optical disk drive, etc. The RAM and/orROM memory units can be implemented as discrete memory ICs, for example.

In some embodiments, a server 996 can provide a graphical web userinterface through which various users (such as players, casinooperators, and so forth) can interact with the transaction facilitator990. The server 996 can accept requests, such as HTTP requests, fromclients (such as a web browser on the computing system 920), and servethe clients responses. In some embodiments, the server 996 can provide auser interface for users who do not communicate with the transactionfacilitator 990 using a web browser. Such users can have specialsoftware installed on their computing system 920 that allows them tocommunicate with the transaction facilitator 990 via the network.

FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic representation of various computing devicesassociated with a casino that are in communication with a transactionfacilitator 1090. The transaction facilitator 1090 is configured toperforms various financial transactions associated with a stored valueaccount 1029 managed by an issuer processor computing system 1026. Inillustrated embodiment, computing devices 1008, 1010, 1012 are shownthat are respectively associated with a casino kiosk 1002, a casinogaming pit 1004, and a casino pit 1006. Each computing device 1008,1010, and 1012 also has a respective display 1014, 1016, and 1018.Content received from the transaction facilitator 1090 over the networkcan be presented on the displays 1014, 1016, and 1018.

Similar to the transaction facilitator 990 of FIG. 9, the transactionfacilitator 1090 can include various computing components, such as a webserver 1096, an application server 1098, a memory unit 1094, and aprocessor 1092. Computing devices contacting the transaction facilitator1090 can each be assigned an identifier, such as a Device ID. Using theDevice ID, the transaction facilitator 1090 can determine which moduleto execute based on permissions or functionality associated with thatDevice ID. In the illustrated embodiment, the transaction facilitator1090 has a module for computing devices that are associated with casinokiosks, as well as a module for computing devices associated with agaming pit and computing devices associated with the casino cage. Asdescribed above, the particular functionality offered at these differentcomputing devices can differ.

Still referring to FIG. 10, example simplified screen displays1018A-1018E of the computing device 1012 associated with the casino cage1006 are shown. Referring first to home screen 1018A, a variety ofoptions are displayed, including “load funds, “load jackpot,” “withdrawfunds,” and “search.” As illustrated, the “load funds” option has beenselected. At screen 1018B, the user is prompted to identify if the fundswill be loaded to an “existing” stored value payment vehicle or if a“new” stored value payment vehicle will need to be issued prior toloading. As illustrated, the “existing card” option has been selected.At screen 1018C player identification information is received, such asname, address, and so forth. Additionally the card information for theexisting card is provided to the system. The stored value paymentvehicle can be physically swiped, or otherwise read, by the computingdevice 1012 or the card information can be manually typed. Next, ascreen 1018D is provided which optionally allows the operator toidentify the particular type of funds that the player is providing. Forexample, source 1 can be “chips” and source 2 can be “cash.” Othersources may be delineated on the screen as well. Itemizing the type offunds may be beneficial for internal auditing or tracking purposes. Thefunds are totaled to determine the total load amount and the computingdevice 1012 communicates a “load funds” message to the transactionfacilitator 1090 for the amount of funds tendered by the player, lessany processing fees. Upon successfully crediting the stored valueaccount 1028, the transaction facilitator 1090 can provide an approvalnumber and other transaction information for display on a transactionapproval screen 1018E.

FIGS. 11-14 depict more example simplified screen displays of thecomputing device 1012 of FIG. 10. Referring first to screen 1018F ofFIG. 11, the “load jackpot” option has been selected. Similar to screen1018B, screen 1018G allows an operator to select whether the jackpotwill be loaded to an existing card or a new card. In this embodiment,the “new card” option has been selected. The transaction facilitator1090 then proceeds to gather personal information from the player neededto issue a stored value payment vehicle. At screen 1018H, for example,the player's name and address is entered. A card number is issued to theplayer, as shown by screen 1018I. In some embodiments, anon-personalized card is printed and provided to the player at the timeof registration with a personalized card to be issued and mailed to theplayer at a later point in time. Once the player has a stored value cardnumber that is linked to a stored value account, the player is asked atscreen 1018J to provide a jackpot ID and jackpot amount. As is known inthe art, jackpots payouts are tracked and are verified prior to payout.Therefore, upon receiving the jackpot ID, the computing system 1012 canquery the appropriate casino computing systems to verify the validity ofthe jackpot. Once the jackpot has been validated, the computing device1012 communicates a “load funds” message to the transaction facilitator1090 for the amount of the jackpot payout, less any processing fees.Upon successfully crediting the stored value account 1028, thetransaction facilitator 1090 can provide an approval number and othertransaction information for display on a transaction approval screen1018K.

Referring now to screen 1018L of FIG. 12, the “load jackpot” option hasbeen selected. Similar to screen 1018G, screen 1018M allows an operatorto select whether the jackpot will be loaded to an existing card or anew card. In this embodiment, the “existing” option has been selected.At screen 1018N player identification information is received, such asname, address, and so forth. Additionally the card information for theexisting card is provided to the system. The stored value paymentvehicle can be physically swiped, or otherwise read, by the computingdevice 1012 or the card information can be manually typed. Now that theplayer has provided their stored value payment vehicle number that islinked to a stored value account, the player is asked at screen 1018O toprovide a jackpot ID and jackpot amount. Once the jackpot has beenvalidated, the computing device 1012 communicates a “load funds” messageto the transaction facilitator 1090 for the amount of the jackpotpayout, less any processing fees. Upon successfully crediting the storedvalue account 1028, the transaction facilitator 1090 can provide anapproval number and other transaction information for display on atransaction approval screen 1018P.

Referring now to screen 1018Q of FIG. 13, the “withdraw funds” optionhas been selected. Using this option, a player can access funds that arestored by the issuer processor computing system 1026 in the stored valueaccount 1028. At screen 1018R cardholder information, such as name andaddress is received, and at screen 1018S the card number and othersecurity-related data can be received. In some embodiments, thetransaction facilitator 1090 can perform a balance check and report, viathe computing device 1012, the amount of funds available for withdraw.At screen 1018T, the amount of funds, associated processing fee, andtotal amount is withdraw is itemized. The transaction facilitator 1090then dispatches the appropriate messaging to the issuer processorcomputing system 1026 to debit the stored value account 1028accordingly. Similar to other embodiments, a transaction approval screen1018U can report data regarding the withdrawal.

Referring now to screen 1018V of FIG. 14, the “search” option has beenselected. Selection of the search option accesses a transaction database1020 that is displayed on 1018W. It is noted that the transactiondatabase 1020 illustrated in FIG. 14 has been simplified for the sake ofclarity. The transaction database 1020 may be maintained by thetransaction facilitator 1090 or may be stored by the computing device1012 or associated computing system. In any event, the transactiondatabase 1020 stores transactions processed by the transactionfacilitator 1090 and allows sorting or searching by transaction date1040, transaction type 1042, patron name 1044, transaction amount 1046,and transaction status 1048. Additionally, the data can be manipulatedbased on username 1054, device type 1052, and based on a time period1050.

FIG. 15 depicts an example user interface screen 1014A of the display1014 of the computing device 1008 that is associated with an unattendedcasino kiosk 1002. The casino kiosk 1002 can be any suitable kiosk, suchas an ATM-Ticket redemption machine or a kiosk dedicated to stored valuepayment card-related processing. As shown by screen 1014A, examplefunctionality offered at this computing device include the ability forthe player to deposit funds to their prepaid account, purchase slottickets with funds from their prepaid account, and withdraw cash.

FIG. 16 depicts an example user interface screen 1016A of the display1016 of the computing device 1010 that is associated with a casinogaming pit 1004. As shown by screen 1016A, example functionality offeredat this computing device include the ability for the player to purchasechips with funds on their prepaid card and deposit chips to theirprepaid card.

It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of the presentinvention have been simplified to illustrate elements that are relevantfor a clear understanding of the present invention, while eliminating,for purposes of clarity, other elements. Those of ordinary skill in theart will recognize, however, that these sorts of focused discussionswould not facilitate a better understanding of the present invention,and therefore, a more detailed description of such elements is notprovided herein.

Any element expressed herein as a means for performing a specifiedfunction is intended to encompass any way of performing that functionincluding, for example, a combination of elements that performs thatfunction. Furthermore the invention, as may be defined by suchmeans-plus-function claims, resides in the fact that the functionalitiesprovided by the various recited means are combined and brought togetherin a manner as defined by the appended claims. Therefore, any means thatcan provide such functionalities may be considered equivalents to themeans shown herein.

Moreover, the processes associated with the present embodiments may beexecuted by programmable equipment, such as computers. Software or othersets of instructions that may be employed to cause programmableequipment to execute the processes may be stored in any storage device,such as, for example, a computer system (non-volatile) memory, anoptical disk, magnetic tape, or magnetic disk. Furthermore, some of theprocesses may be programmed when the computer system is manufactured orvia a computer-readable memory medium.

It can also be appreciated that certain process aspects described hereinmay be performed using instructions stored on a computer-readable memorymedium or media that direct a computer or computer system to performprocess steps. A computer-readable medium may include, for example,memory devices such as diskettes, compact discs of both read-only andread/write varieties, optical disk drives, and hard disk drives. Anon-transitory computer-readable medium may also include memory storagethat may be physical, virtual, permanent, temporary, semi-permanentand/or semi-temporary.

A “computer,” “computer system,” “host,” “engine,” or “processor” maybe, for example and without limitation, a processor, microcomputer,minicomputer, server, mainframe, laptop, personal data assistant (PDA),wireless e-mail device, cellular phone, pager, processor, fax machine,scanner, or any other programmable device configured to transmit and/orreceive data over a network. Computer systems and computer-based devicesdisclosed herein may include memory for storing certain softwareapplications used in obtaining, processing, and communicatinginformation. It can be appreciated that such memory may be internal orexternal with respect to operation of the disclosed embodiments. Thememory may also include any means for storing software, including a harddisk, an optical disk, floppy disk, ROM (read only memory), RAM (randomaccess memory), PROM (programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasablePROM) and/or other computer-readable memory media.

In various embodiments of the present invention, a single component maybe replaced by multiple components, and multiple components may bereplaced by a single component, to perform a given function orfunctions. Except where such substitution would not be operative topractice embodiments of the present invention, such substitution iswithin the scope of the present invention. Any of the servers describedherein, for example, may be replaced by a “server farm” or othergrouping of networked servers (e.g., a group of server blades) that arelocated and configured for cooperative functions. It can be appreciatedthat a server farm may serve to distribute workload between/amongindividual components of the farm and may expedite computing processesby harnessing the collective and cooperative power of multiple servers.Such server farms may employ load-balancing software that accomplishestasks such as, for example, tracking demand for processing power fromdifferent machines, prioritizing and scheduling tasks based on networkdemand, and/or providing backup contingency in the event of componentfailure or reduction in operability.

The examples presented herein are intended to illustrate potential andspecific implementations. It can be appreciated that the examples areintended primarily for purposes of illustration of the invention forthose skilled in the art. No particular aspect or aspects of theexamples are necessarily intended to limit the scope of the presentdisclosure. For example, no particular aspect or aspects of the examplesof system architectures, table layouts, or report formats describedherein are necessarily intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

In general, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art thatvarious embodiments described herein, or components or parts thereof,may be implemented in many different embodiments of software, firmware,and/or hardware, or modules thereof. The software code or specializedcontrol hardware used to implement some of the present embodiments isnot limiting of the present invention. Such software may be stored onany type of suitable computer-readable medium or media such as, forexample, a magnetic or optical storage medium. Thus, the operation andbehavior of the embodiments are described without specific reference tothe actual software code or specialized hardware components. The absenceof such specific references is feasible because it is clearly understoodthat artisans of ordinary skill would be able to design software andcontrol hardware to implement the embodiments of the present disclosurebased on the description herein with only a reasonable effort andwithout undue experimentation.

In various embodiments, the systems and methods described herein may beconfigured and/or programmed to include one or more of theabove-described electronic, computer-based elements and components. Inaddition, these elements and components may be particularly configuredto execute the various rules, algorithms, programs, processes, andmethod steps described herein.

While various embodiments have been described herein, it should beapparent, however, that various modifications, alterations andadaptations to those embodiments may occur to persons skilled in the artwith the attainment of some or all of the advantages of the presentdisclosure. The disclosed embodiments are therefore intended to includeall such modifications, alterations and adaptations without departingfrom the scope and spirit of the present disclosure as set forth in theappended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-based method of player tracking, themethod performed by one or more computing devices comprisinginstructions stored in a memory, which when executed by one or moreprocessors of the one or more computing devices, cause the one or morecomputing devices to perform the method comprising: storing in computermemory of the one or more computing devices, a player identifier of aplayer for a gaming environment, wherein the player identifier isassociated with a financial account maintained by an issuer processorcomputing system on a bankcard network, wherein funds held in thefinancial account are usable by the player for payment transactions atany of a plurality of merchants associated with the bank card network;subsequent to the use of funds held in the financial account for one ormore payment transactions, receiving from the issuer processor computingsystem transaction-related information associated with the one or morepayment transactions; generating a player intelligence report for theplayer based at least partially on the transaction-related informationreceived from the issuer processor computing system, wherein the playerintelligence report identifies the one or more of the plurality ofmerchants, and providing the player intelligence report to a casinocomputing system associated with the gaming environment, and wherein theplayer intelligence report comprises at least some of thetransaction-related information.
 2. The computer-based method of claim1, wherein the player identifier is a loyalty account number of theplayer.
 3. The computer-based method of claim 1, wherein thetransaction-related information comprises at least a merchant name and atransaction date.
 4. The computer-based method of claim 1, wherein thefunds held in the financial account are accessible to the player throughthe use of a payment vehicle.
 5. The computer-based method of claim 4,wherein the payment vehicle is a general purpose reloadable card.
 6. Thecomputer-based method of claim 4, further comprising: assigning aloyalty value to the use of the payment vehicle based on thetransaction-related information associated with use of the paymentvehicle for payment transactions at the one or more of the plurality ofmerchants.
 7. The computer-based method of claim 6, wherein the loyaltyvalue is a point value, and wherein the point value is based on thetransaction-related information.
 8. The computer-based method of claim7, wherein the point value assigned to uses of the payment vehicle for afirst transaction type is higher than the point value assigned to usesof the payment vehicle for a second transaction type.
 9. Acomputer-based method, the method performed by a transaction facilitatorcomputing system comprising instructions stored in a memory, which whenexecuted by a processor of the transaction facilitator computing system,cause the transaction facilitator computing system to perform the methodcomprising: storing in computer memory of the transaction facilitatorcomputing system, a a unique identifier for a player that is associatedwith a loyalty program of a gaming environment, wherein the uniqueidentifier is associated with a financial account maintained byfinancial institution on a bankcard network, and wherein funds held inthe financial account are usable by the player for payment transactionsat any of a plurality of merchants associated with the bank cardnetwork; linking a transaction incentive to the player, wherein thetransaction incentive is applicable to a payment transaction at one ofthe plurality of merchants associated with the bank card network; andwhen the financial account is used in the processing of a paymenttransaction at a merchant: (i) receiving transaction-related informationassociated with the use of the financial account in the processing ofthe payment transaction at the merchant, wherein the transaction-relatedinformation comprises a merchant identifier; and (ii) determining, as afunction of the identity of the merchant identifier whether thetransaction incentive is applicable to the payment transaction.
 10. Thecomputer-based method of claim 9, wherein the transaction incentive isonly applicable for a single payment transaction.
 11. The computer-basedmethod of claim 10, further comprising: causing the transactionincentive to be applied to the payment transaction when the transactionincentive is determined to be applicable.
 12. The computer-based methodof claim 9, wherein the transaction incentive is a merchant-specificcoupon.
 13. The computer-based method of claim 9, wherein a value of thetransaction incentive is based on a loyalty status of the player. 14.The computer-based method of claim 13, further comprising: reporting theapplication of the transaction incentive to a casino computing system.15. A player tracking system, comprising: a player tracking computingsystem comprising one or more processors and non-transitory computerreadable medium having instructions stored thereon, which when executedby at least one of the one or more processors, cause the player trackingsystem to: link a loyalty profile of a player with a financial accountmaintained by an issuer processor computing system on a bank cardnetwork; communicate with a loyalty computing system of a gamingenvironment to update the loyalty profile of the player based ontransaction-related information received from the issuer processorcomputing system, wherein: the transaction-related information isassociated with a plurality of payment transactions initiated at aplurality of merchants associated with the bank card network, whereineach of the plurality of payment transactions access funds maintained inthe financial account; and and least one of the plurality of merchantsis unaffiliated with the gaming environment.
 16. The player trackingsystem of claim 15, wherein the instructions, when executed furthercause the player tracking computing system to: receive an incentive fromthe loyalty computing system, wherein the incentive comprises atransaction parameter; and apply the incentive to at least one of theplurality of payment transactions when the transaction parameter issatisfied.
 17. The player tracking system of claim 16, wherein theincentive is a coupon.
 18. The player tracking system of claim 16,wherein the transaction parameter identifies one or more merchants. 19.The player tracking system of claim 16, further comprising the issuerprocessor computing system.
 20. The computer-based method of claim 16,wherein the incentive is only applicable for a single paymenttransaction.